face to face, for she feared the wrath of her uncle Poseidon.




CHAPTER VIII

ALCINOUS


Nausicaa came to her father's house, and there her brothers
unyoked the mules from the wagon, and carried the garments into
the house; and the maiden went to her chamber, where a nurse
kindled for her a fire, and prepared a meal.

At the same time Ulysses rose to go to the city; and Athene spread
a mist about him, for she would not that any of the Phaeacians
should see him and mock him. And when he was now about to enter
the city, the goddess took upon herself the shape of a young
maiden carrying a pitcher, and met him.

Then Ulysses asked her: "My child, canst thou tell me where dwells
Alcinous? for I am a stranger in this place."

She answered: "I will show thee, for he dwells near to my own
father. But be thou silent, for we Phaeacians love not strangers
over much."

Then Athene led the way, and Ulysses followed after her; and much
he marvelled, as he went, at the harbours, and the ships, and the